RESTRUCTURING IN FOCUS: HON. TAIWO LEKAN SALAMI UNVEILS TRANSFORMATIONAL PLANS FOR 3SC ON SUCCESS FM _Long-distance away matches will be traveled by air_

The Executive Chairman of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami, has laid out a bold and comprehensive roadmap aimed at revamping and repositioning the iconic Ibadan-based football club for domestic dominance and continental glory.

Speaking live on Success FM’s popular sports program on Saturday, Hon. Salami addressed a wide array of key issues, ranging from financial restructuring and infrastructure development to player welfare, media relations, and fan engagement. His remarks shed light on the ongoing overhauls taking place under his leadership and the forward-thinking vision guiding them.

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*Strengthening Financial Base Through Commercialization*

Hon. Salami emphasized the urgent need to stabilize and grow the club’s financial standing. To this end, he revealed that his first major appointment was that of a Chief Operating Officer (COO) tasked with driving the commercialization of the club. “We are repositioning 3SC for commercial success. The club must be able to sustain itself financially and not rely solely on government subvention,” he stated.

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*E-Ticketing, Community Engagement, and Media Overhaul*

To bring fans closer to the club and improve the matchday experience, Salami announced plans to introduce electronic ticketing (e-ticketing). He confirmed a recent meeting with the Oyo State Government and the State’s Internal Revenue Board to finalize the plan, promising that implementation would be fast-tracked.

“We must modernize our operations. Fans should be able to get tickets with ease. This will also boost transparency in revenue collection,” he said.

He also pledged to strengthen the club’s media department for effective communication, appointing Ibrahim Akindele as the new media officer, following concerns about the performance of the previous team.

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*Grassroots Development and Team B*

Highlighting talent discovery as a long-term strategy, Hon. Salami announced the revival of competitions such as the Lekan Salami Cup, which will serve as a scouting platform for local talents, particularly from Ibadan. This, he explained, is part of efforts to establish a Team B and a youth academy for 3SC.

“We cannot compete on the big stage without developing our base. We are starting the process of building an academy and a reserve team to feed the main squad,” he said.

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*Continental Ambition and Government Expectations*

“The government wants results, even without saying it,” Hon. Salami declared. “Our targets are the Nigerian Premier League title and a spot in the Continental League. This restructuring is about delivering results.”

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*Facilities, Logistics, and Transportation*

Hon. Salami expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of stadium facilities, especially issues relating to water supply, restroom conditions, and maintenance. He blamed this on poor electricity supply needed to pump water and promised to liaise with the Ministry of Sports to resolve the matter.

He further revealed that the club’s outdated transport logistics will soon be overhauled. “We will change the club’s vehicle. Long-distance away matches will be traveled by air, not by road,” he said, adding that a letter would soon be sent to Governor Seyi Makinde to formalize the plan.

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*Permanent Clubhouse and Infrastructure Plans*

The club is also negotiating with the Oodua Group regarding temporary use of a clubhouse. While Oodua has long-term plans for the facility, Hon. Salami confirmed discussions are ongoing to secure a permanent home for 3SC.

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*Player Welfare, Insurance, and Health*

Addressing concerns over two injured players—Abdullahi and Muritala—who were reportedly abandoned after injuries, Salami clarified that the club will not neglect any of its players. “We are going to take full responsibility for their treatment,” he assured.

He also announced plans to implement premium health insurance for all players and staff. “We can’t run a professional club without health coverage. It is a priority,” he stressed.

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*Combating Referee Bias and Ensuring Fair Play*

The 3SC boss did not shy away from addressing refereeing controversies, describing some officiating as “biased” and detrimental to the club. “We will reach out to the league authorities and match officials to demand a level playing field. 3SC will not tolerate injustice,” he warned.

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*Merchandise, Jerseys, and Fan Visibility*

To enhance fan identity and brand loyalty, Salami announced the launch of new jerseys in two pricing variants and promised that 3SC merchandise—including flags—will soon be available.

“Our fans must wear our colors with pride. The contract for production will be awarded this coming week,” he added. The club’s buses will also be rebranded and fixed, and a city tour with players is being planned to increase public engagement ahead of the new season.

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*Security, Accreditation, and Press Facilities*

Salami promised to partner with relevant agencies to beef up security at the stadium. He also acknowledged the poor state of the press gallery and said it would be addressed. “Proper accreditation and seating for journalists will be introduced,” he affirmed.

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*Modern Sporting Structure: Staff and Indigenous Input*

In line with modern football management, 3SC will soon be equipped with a Sporting Director, a Psychologist, Match Analysts, Trackers, Dieticians, and Nutritionists. Salami explained that performance will take precedence over sentiment and that local professionals will be given opportunities.

“There are talks that the Oyo State Coaching Council wants a stake in 3SC. We are open to collaborations, but it must be professional. Indigenous players will also be considered in our recruitment strategy,” he said.

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*A New Dawn at 3SC*

Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami’s extensive and transparent revelations signal a new era for the Oluyole Warriors. His commitment to restructuring with measurable plans, modern practices, and unwavering support for player welfare indicates that 3SC is not just preparing for another season—but for a future rooted in excellence, sustainability, and legacy.

> “This is not business as usual. 3SC will be run like a professional club. The time for sentiments is over; the time for results has come.” — Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami